Simmons is celebrating 50 years of notable projects, animal spotlights and other memories, which will be shared on the zoo's social media accounts with the hashtag #Doc50.

The zoo will announce special Doc-themed giveaways and discounts, as well as activities.

The celebration ends Dec. 1, the anniversary of the day he was hired at the zoo.

"Lee has built a tremendous foundation here for the next generation of zookeepers, researchers, educators and the like to exert and share their passion for wildlife,” said Dennis Pate, executive director and CEO. “For us to be able to share that with you (at) one of the world’s best zoos it’s truly magical. What an honor it has been to continue his legacy and that of this storied zoo.”

Simmons started working at the what was then called Henry Doorly Zoo in 1966 as a resident veterinarian and became director in 1970.

The Omaha Zoo Foundation launched the Dr. Lee G. Simmons Legacy Fund to honor Simmons’ commitment to the growth of the zoo’s conservation, research and animal welfare initiatives.